Colby Lewis expected to start Saturday for Rangers

Colby Lewis should make his 2014 debut for the Texas Rangers on Saturday, assuming that he recovers from his last outing without any issues with his left hip.

The right-hander hasn’t pitched since July 2012, first after having surgery for a torn flexor muscle and also after having a hip-resurfacing procedure eight months ago. He was disappointed to not open the season with the Rangers, and has made two starts for Triple A Round Rock.

The latest was Sunday, when he logged 98 pitches and allowed four runs (two earned) in five innings. He will throw a bullpen session Wednesday, discuss matters with pitching coach Mike Maddux and join the Rangers on Friday as they open a 10-game homestand.

“We’re going to let him finish his work in Round Rock,” manager Ron Washington said Tuesday. “Our intentions are to bring him into Texas.”

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Lewis will take the rotation spot created when left-hander Joe Saunders was placed on the 15-day disabled list because of a bruised left ankle. Tanner Scheppers will be bumped to Sunday, but could go Saturday if Lewis reports any issues.